The Latin American Travel Association (Lata) has unveiled a “toucan tree” initiative to raise £1,000 for charity during Lata Expo (June 19-21).
Delegates attending the B2B event at Battersea Evolution, London, will be encouraged to make a donation and decorate a jungle scene with toucans.
Funds raised will support the work of Lata’s charitable arm, the Lata Foundation, to help those most in need in Latin America.
‘Tito the Toucan’ will be braving the UK’s hot weather in a furry body suit to encourage delegates to take part in the fundraiser.
Colin Stewart, chairman of Lata and a Lata Foundation trustee, said: “It’s been a tough few years for the foundation and, unsurprisingly, funds were dramatically diminished during the pandemic, especially due to the fact that many of our regular donors are from the travel sector.
“We encourage delegates at Lata Expo to get involved with this initiative but also to meet with the Lata Foundation representatives to discuss how their companies may be able to get involved.
“Now that travel is picking up to Latin America, we encourage companies that sell the region to consider making regular donations to the charity.”
Organised by Travel Weekly parent Jacobs Media Group, the Expo is marking its 10th edition this year.
The Lata Expo agent programme will take place from 4pm-6pm on Wednesday, June 21, followed by an evening networking event.
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